subject: Anulom Vilom Pranayama: Alternate Nostril Breathing Techniques [print this page] Many of the alternative therapeutic techniques are based on the revival of the life force or energy that flows through the body. Ancient Chinese and Indian healing techniques are all based on the principle that this vital force that runs its course through the body, allows the body to remain healthy. If at all there is an obstruction in the channels through which this energy flows, the body will begin to ail.
'Prana' or life is the force that yoga acknowledges. It is believed that this life force is in all the things that surround us. We can get the life force from the food that we eat and the water that we drink. However, the most accessible form of this 'prana' is through the air we breathe. If we increase our aerobic capacity, we will also increase the amount of life force that we draw in from the environment.
Anuloma Vilom Pranayama is done by closing one of your nostrils and breathing in with the other. Here's how you can perform this technique: with your thumb, shut the right nostril and breathe in from the left. Gently open the right nostril and close the left nostril with your middle finger. Now exhale from the right nostril. After you have exhaled, breathe in again, from the right nostril, then using your thumb, block the right nostril once again, exhaling from the left nostril. Continue inhaling and exhaling through alternate nostrils in this manner.
This exercise should be repeated for at least ten minutes. This process helps remove any blockage in the nasal cavities. This can also help massage the lining of your nasal cavities and the organs that are involved in the process of respiration.
When you practice this technique regularly, you will be able to cleanse all your energy hot spots or 'nadis' in the body. Diseases like gout, rheumatism, urinary tract infection and ailments of the reproductive organs can be cured by anuloma vilom. Respiratory disorders like sinus can also be cured using this technique. Cataracts and common colds can be prevented by regular practice of anuloma vilom.
This exercise is also excellent for those suffering from heart conditions. With the help of anuloma vilom, blockages of the arteries can be removed, leaving the circulation unimpeded. In just about 3 to 4 months, you will be able to dissolve about 30% to 40% of the blockage in your arteries. The exercise will also help you control cholesterol, and remove negative thoughts from your mind to make you feel more positive. In all, anuloma vilom helps you in a holistic manner.
